Granted: Uncovering How Microbes Build Molecules That Heal

Professor of Chemistry Lou Charkoudian
Source of funding: National Science Foundation (NSF) and National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Amount: $447,000 (NSF); $462,351 (NIH)

About my work: Federal funding from the NIH and NSF has enabled me to build a research program that positively impacts science through both the knowledge we produce and people we empower.

Our lab studies the chemical processes that underpin how nature builds molecules that play an important role in society (for example, antibiotics, antifungals, and biofuels). We examine the evolution of microbial biosynthetic gene clusters and explore how the encoded proteins collaborate to assemble structurally complex, organic (carbon-based) molecules. Our team's overarching goal is to apply knowledge from foundational bioorganic chemistry studies to innovate sustainable routes to molecules that better human health and the environment. 

I view our lab as a place for students to develop an interdisciplinary skillset and knowledge base. Students learn about science and how to be scientists by carrying out collaborative, high-level research. More than 100 Haverford students have earned authorship on peer-reviewed manuscripts through their undergraduate research in our lab and through course-based undergraduate experiences, and many more have presented their findings at local, regional, and national scientific meetings. Our lab alums graduate from Haverford as scientifically knowledgeable, challenge-seeking, and compassionate citizens ready to tackle the emerging needs of our time.

Vy Le '25: I explored the self-malonylation properties of acyl carrier proteins, which play a critical role in the production of natural products—a prominent source of medicinal drugs. In addition to learning how to take initiative in my own research, I also learned to embrace failure and navigate troubleshooting. Through this experience, I not only developed the ability to conduct impactful scientific research, but also learned how to work collaboratively as part of a team. These skills will carry forward into my future career in science as I begin medical school at the Perelman School of Medicine.

Armaan Khan '26: I’ve been investigating the conformational states of the phosphopantetheine (Ppant) arm in acyl carrier proteins, which are key components in biosynthetic pathways for natural products. Through this project, I’ve gained hands-on experience in protein expression, purification, chemical modification, and IR spectroscopy analysis. Beyond building technical skills, this research has helped me grow in persistence, troubleshooting, and scientific communication. I’ll carry all of this with me as I continue this project for my thesis next year, and at Jefferson's Sidney Kimmel Medical College, where a strong foundation in research and a problem-solving mindset will be critical. 

Jana Bowler '26: I've been in Professor Charkoudian's lab since my freshman year, so three years now. I've been a part of several projects, which have exposed me to a wide range of techniques and areas. I started in the lab investigating a strain of bacteria isolated from a volcano, then had the opportunity to represent the Charkoudian lab in Australia for a summer and do structural biology research, and am now involved in a project that bridges organic synthesis and biochemistry research. My work in her lab has provided me with incredible experiences and facilitated my desire to pursue a career in research. Following my undergraduate degree, I want to go to graduate school and continue investigating the ways that nature might be a source of new tools and molecules, whether for medicinal, agricultural, or industrial purposes.  

Alia Abulgazieva '26: I have been learning a lot about biosynthetic pathways and their potential in building medically important molecules. My research so far has focused on the expression and purification of acyl carrier proteins (ACPs), which are central to these processes. This summer, I plan on doing summer research for the very first time and build on other students' work by characterizing the self-acylation abilities of different ACPs. Through this experience, I’ve gained valuable hands-on skills in protein biochemistry, becoming more confident in the lab, and in approaching open-ended scientific questions!

Federal grants can be life-changing for faculty, students, and those who benefit from their research. Granted, a series about federally funded research, showcases the sort of projects that need your financial support to offset recent, unplanned cuts in government funding. Learn more about how to support research at Haverford.